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Polk County Schools has selected its next superintendent.

The Polk County Board of Education voted unanimously Monday at a special called meeting to approve Todd Murphy as the district’s next superintendent. Murphy will replace Aaron Greene, who is retiring in June after serving the past nine years in the district’s top role.

Murphy currently serves as human resources director for Polk County Schools. He has worked as an administrator in the district since 2015, serving as principal at both Tryon Elementary School and Polk County Middle School before assuming his current position in 2023.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to be named the new superintendent of Polk County Schools,” Murphy said. “This opportunity is both a privilege and a responsibility that I do not take lightly.

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Polk County Board of Education for this incredible honor and for entrusting me with the responsibility of leading our school district. I look forward to working in close partnership with the Board of Education as we continue to advance our shared vision for student success.”

After starting his educational career as a teacher and coach, Murphy moved into administration in 2007 as the assistant principal and athletic director at Hendersonville High School. He held that position for four years before spending the next two years as principal at Mills River Elementary School.

Murphy holds a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Trevecca University in Nashville, Tenn. and a master’s in school administration from Gardner-Webb University.

“It is an honor for our board to announce Todd Murphy as our next superintendent,” said Board of Education Chairman Mike Ashworth. “His dedication to Polk County Schools these past several years has without a doubt prepared him well for this opportunity. We are very excited about him leading Polk County Schools into our next chapter.”

Greene announced in February his intent to retire at the end of the current academic year. His departure will end a career of three decades in Polk County Schools, where he served as a teacher, administrator and director of curriculum and instruction before assuming the role of superintendent in 2016.

As first a school administrator and now as human resources director, Murphy has had the opportunity to work closely with Greene for several years. He’ll now have that opportunity to utilize both that experience and his own knowledge gained in more than two decades in education to serve Polk County Schools.

“I want to take a moment to recognize and thank the leaders who have come before me, those who have dedicated themselves to building and strengthening this district over the years,” Murphy said. “Their vision, hard work and commitment to excellence have made Polk County Schools what it is today, and I am grateful to follow in their footsteps.

“Polk County is a community rich with tradition, values and a deep commitment to education. I am excited to serve alongside our passionate educators, staff, families and community members as we work together to support and empower every student. Together, we will build on the strong foundation that already exists, focusing on student achievement, innovative learning and the well-being of every child. I am committed to leading with a steadfast belief in the potential of our students.

“Thank you again for this incredible opportunity. I am truly proud and honored to serve Polk County Schools.”